Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu Overview
Height: 9 – 11 inches
Weight: 9 – 16 lbs
Lifespan: 10 – 18 years
Group: Companion / Toy
Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Playful, Outgoing
The Shih Tzu is an ancient toy breed that originated in Tibet and was later developed in China as a cherished companion of Chinese royalty. The name 'Shih Tzu' means 'lion dog' in Chinese, reflecting their distinctive flowing coat and regal bearing. These small, sturdy dogs were bred solely for companionship and have perfected the art of being devoted lap dogs over centuries. Their luxurious double coat requires significant grooming commitment, with daily brushing necessary to prevent matting and tangles. The Shih Tzu's coat can come in various colors and patterns, and many owners keep them in a shorter 'puppy cut' for easier maintenance. Despite their aristocratic appearance, Shih Tzus have playful, outgoing personalities and enjoy moderate activity. They adapt well to apartment living and are generally friendly with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly socialized. Their short muzzle makes them brachycephalic, meaning they can be sensitive to heat and may snore or snort. Shih Tzus are alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors, but they're typically not excessive barkers. These dogs thrive on human companionship and don't do well when left alone for long periods. Training requires patience as they can be somewhat stubborn, but positive reinforcement methods work well. Their relatively long lifespan and adaptable nature make them excellent companions for seniors, families, and first-time dog owners who can commit to their grooming needs.
The Shih Tzu's temperament combines affectionate, gentle, playful, outgoing qualities that make them appealing companions for appropriate owners. These dogs form strong bonds with their families, demonstrating loyalty and affection that endears them to household members. Their personality reflects breed-typical characteristics including energy levels suited to their size and original purpose, playfulness that provides entertainment and engagement, and behavioral patterns consistent with their breed heritage. With family members, Shih Tzus typically display affectionate behavior while maintaining individual personality variations that make each dog unique. Their interaction with strangers ranges from friendly acceptance to reserved caution, depending on individual temperament and socialization experiences. The breed's intelligence level influences their trainability and ability to learn commands, tasks, and appropriate household behaviors. Energy levels require consideration when matching this breed to potential owners, as daily activity needs must align with owner lifestyle and capabilities. These dogs may display independence or attachment tendencies that affect their behavior when separated from family members. Behavioral characteristics include vocalizations appropriate to their breed type, territorial awareness that may manifest in protective behaviors, and play styles that reflect their size and temperament. Understanding these temperamental qualities helps potential owners determine compatibility between their lifestyle expectations and the breed's typical behavioral patterns, ensuring successful long-term relationships between dogs and their human families.
Training a Shih Tzu requires understanding their learning style, motivation, and typical breed characteristics that influence training success. These dogs respond to positive reinforcement methods emphasizing reward-based techniques that encourage desired behaviors while building strong human-canine bonds. Early socialization during the critical developmental period between 8-16 weeks of age establishes foundational experiences with various people, animals, environments, and situations that shape adult temperament and behavior. Basic obedience training should begin early, establishing household rules, appropriate behaviors, and communication systems between dogs and owners. Training challenges may include breed-specific tendencies toward independence, stubbornness, or distractibility that require patient, consistent approaches. Consistency among all family members ensures clear communication and prevents confusion that undermines training efforts. Housetraining success depends on regular schedules, appropriate management, and positive reinforcement for eliminating in designated areas. Mental stimulation through training exercises, puzzle toys, and interactive games prevents boredom-related behavioral problems while strengthening cognitive abilities. Professional training classes provide structured learning environments and expert guidance particularly valuable for novice owners or dogs presenting training challenges. Realistic expectations based on breed characteristics, individual temperament, and owner commitment determine training outcomes and long-term success.
The Shih Tzu's exercise requirements reflect their size, energy level, and original purpose, requiring daily physical activity to maintain health and behavioral balance. Adult dogs typically need 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, adjustable based on individual energy levels and age considerations. Appropriate activities include leashed walks providing physical exercise and mental stimulation through environmental exploration, play sessions in securely fenced areas allowing safe off-leash activity, and interactive games strengthening human-canine bonds while meeting exercise needs. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, scent work, training exercises, and problem-solving activities prevents boredom and provides cognitive enrichment essential for intelligent breeds. Without adequate physical and mental exercise, dogs may develop problematic behaviors including destructive chewing, excessive barking, restless pacing, or attention-seeking activities. Exercise intensity and duration should adjust for puppies, senior dogs, and individuals with health conditions requiring modified activity levels. Weather considerations may necessitate indoor exercise alternatives during extreme temperatures or inclement conditions. Meeting these exercise requirements ensures physical fitness, mental well-being, and appropriate behavior management.
Grooming requirements for the Shih Tzu depend on coat type, length, and texture, requiring regular maintenance to preserve health and appearance. Brushing frequency ranges from weekly for short-coated varieties to daily for long-haired dogs prone to matting and tangling. Bathing should occur every 4-8 weeks or as needed, using quality dog shampoo appropriate for their coat type and skin sensitivity. Professional grooming may be necessary for breeds requiring specialized clipping, stripping, or styling to maintain breed-appropriate appearance. Nail trimming every 2-4 weeks prevents overgrowth causing discomfort and gait problems. Dental care including regular brushing with canine toothpaste prevents periodontal disease and associated health complications. Ear cleaning removes debris and prevents infection, particularly important for dogs with pendant ears or those prone to ear problems. Skin care includes checking for parasites, irritations, or abnormalities during grooming sessions. Seasonal considerations may affect grooming needs, with heavier shedding during coat changes requiring increased brushing frequency. Establishing grooming routines from puppyhood creates positive associations and cooperation during grooming procedures. Proper grooming maintains physical health, prevents discomfort, and strengthens human-canine bonds through regular handling and care.
The Shih Tzu typically enjoys a lifespan of 10 – 18 years, though individual longevity depends on genetics, care quality, and health management throughout life. Like all breeds, they may be predisposed to certain health conditions including genetic disorders, structural problems, or age-related diseases requiring awareness and preventive care. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on breeding stock to minimize hereditary condition transmission and improve overall breed health. Regular veterinary examinations including annual checkups and age-appropriate screening tests enable early disease detection and intervention. Preventive care including vaccinations, parasite control, and dental prophylaxis protects against preventable diseases and health problems. Nutrition plays a crucial role in health maintenance, with quality diet appropriate to age, activity level, and individual needs supporting optimal physical condition. Weight management prevents obesity-related complications including joint stress, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Exercise appropriate to age and health status maintains cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and joint mobility. Prompt attention to health changes including behavioral shifts, appetite changes, or physical symptoms enables timely veterinary intervention. Genetic testing may identify predispositions to hereditary conditions, informing preventive care strategies and breeding decisions.
The ideal home for a Shih Tzu provides appropriate space, activity opportunities, and family dynamics matching breed characteristics and needs. These dogs adapt to various living situations including apartments or houses, provided exercise and mental stimulation requirements are consistently met. Family suitability depends on household composition, with considerations for children's ages, other pets, and household activity levels affecting compatibility. The breed's tolerance for children varies, with some dogs excellent family companions while others better suited to adult households or families with older, respectful children. Compatibility with other pets depends on individual temperament, socialization experiences, and prey drive intensity that may affect relationships with smaller animals. Climate tolerance influences comfort in different geographic regions, with some breeds adapting to various conditions while others prefer specific temperature ranges. First-time dog owners should carefully consider whether breed characteristics, training requirements, and care needs align with their experience level and lifestyle capabilities. The commitment required for grooming, exercise, training, and healthcare must align with owner resources and willingness to meet these responsibilities throughout the dog's lifetime. Successful matches between dogs and families result from honest assessment of breed requirements and family capabilities, ensuring positive long-term relationships benefiting both dogs and their human companions.
Breed Highlights
Listings
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2 adorable Shih Tzu boys available
Shih Tzu Hilo (Hawaii) May 4, 2025 $ 3500.00We still have two adorable Shih Tzu boys available! They have been vet checked and are ready to be rehomed for $3500. Contact us via text. Don't miss out on this perfect Christmas opportunity! You can pick them up today. They are a must-see!
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4 Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Fort Myers (Florida) June 3, 2025 $ 3000.00I have four Shih Tzu puppies born July 15th, 2022 and ready for delivery on September 9th, 2022. They will be 8 weeks old on that day, and we plan to take them to the vet for their first series of shots and a clean bill of health. I intend to do thei...
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AKC ShihTzu puppies
Shih Tzu Bethlehem (Pennsylvania) June 16, 2025 $ 2000.00We have a litter of AKC Shih Tzu puppies born in March. They come vaccinated along with their first shots. Only males no females. Please contact me via phone if you have any questions.
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1 girl and 3 boys white and sable Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Duluth (Georgia) May 11, 2025 $ 2000.00I've 1 girl and 3 boys white and sable Shih Tzu puppies available. They're ready to go home now. They're making perfect family pets, very smart and have good dispositions. The puppies are registered, healthy, friendly and very playful. Please contact...
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Black and White Shih Tzu Puppies for Sale
Shih Tzu April 27, 2025 $ 2000.00Three female black and white Shih Tzus and one male are pure breed Shih Tzus. They are delivered with a purebred certificate, vaccines, deworming, and a health exam. Plus one month's worth of health insurance. Only serious buyers should call or text ...
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3 boy & 1 girl Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Traverse City (Michigan) April 16, 2025 $ 2000.00Hey guys! I've four super cute Shih Tzu puppies up for sell! They're all 14 weeks old and we've got three boys and one girl. They're all up to date on their shots and de-wormer, so no need to worry about that. These little guys aren't just pets, they...
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Shih tzu puppies 10 weeks old
Shih Tzu Bellevue (Washington) March 29, 2025 $ 1800.0010 weeks old Shih Tzu puppies, all males. They have had 2nd vaccines, are very healthy, hypoallergenic and intelligent. They eating Premium Orijen. Asking $1.800 each.
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Male and female Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Los Angeles (California) May 18, 2025 $ 1800.00Male and female Shih Tzu puppies for sale, tricolor and white / brown available. They are in excellent health, are lovely, and are intelligent. Shots were given for the first time, and the puppy was dewormed four times. They come with CKC registratio...
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3 ShihTzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Boston (Massachusetts) May 26, 2025 $ 1800.003 ShihTzu puppies for sale. They were born on April 21,2022 (they will get shots when they are 12 weeks old) (they are also starting to potty train). 2 males $1800 (white and black). 1 female is offered for $2200. (dark one). They'll be ready to go h...
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10 weeks old fullblooded Female Shih Tzu puppy for sale
Shih Tzu Douglasville (Georgia) April 3, 2025 $ 1750.0010 weeks old fullblooded Female Shih Tzu puppy for sale. She has been vet checked/examined and is a healthy little girl. The veterinarian administered the first vaccines and dewormers. She is toy-sized in height and will not weigh more than 10 pounds...
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3 Imperial ShihTzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Marietta (Georgia) May 20, 2025 $ 1700.00There are only 3 imperial Shihtzu puppies left, who are almost 7 weeks old. In addition to being dewormed and having their first round of vaccinations done, they will also be provided with papers. There is no requirement for a deposit. FaceTime is al...
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2 male Shih Apso Puppies
Shih Tzu Charlestown (New Hampshire) March 16, 2025 $ 1600.00We have 2 male Shihtzu Lhasa Apso cross available for there new home. They will be ready to pick up on New Year’s Day. Dad is fullbree Shihtzu with papers,and mom is a fullbreed Lhasa Apso with papers. Both pups will have their distemper shots, and b...
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3 Shih Tzu Puppies Available – 8 Weeks Old
Shih Tzu Harrington (Washington) October 31, 2025 $ 1500.003 precious 8-week-old Shih Tzu puppies are looking for loving families – 2 playful males and 1 sweet female. Mom is AKC registered, Dad is purebred (non-registered). Both parents on-site for you to meet. These sweet pups are ready for their new famil...
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Shihtzu boy puppy 5 months old
Shih Tzu Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) April 7, 2025 $ 1500.00We're getting out of the Shih Tzu business, so he'll need a new home! He is a 5-month-old baby. He enjoys car rides, has initiated wearing a harness, is a good boy who does not go potty in the kennel building, and gets along well with other dogs, cat...
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Liver chocolate Imperial Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu San Diego (California) May 23, 2025 $ 1500.00We have Liver chocolate Imperial Shih Tzu puppies for sale. Liver is a relatively uncommon coat color in this breed. I am not a breeder, but I am looking for loving homes for these puppies. Both parents belong to me. Unfortunately, due to personal re...
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My Shihtzu Beauty
Shih Tzu (Florida) April 16, 2025 $ 1500.00Pure breed with vaccine, dewormed, registered call for best offer
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2 ShihTzu babies ready by Thanksgiving
Shih Tzu San Bernardino (California) June 11, 2025 $ 1500.002 males (1 black and white, 1 red) Cute newborn shih tzus in search of a forever home. They were born on 30th of September, 2022 and will be ready for Thanksgiving. Will include first shots and deworming. ONLY SERIOUS INQUIRIES!! Mom and dad onsite. ...
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Purebred male and female ShihTzu puppy
Shih Tzu Las Vegas (Nevada) May 20, 2025 $ 1500.00Purebred shih tzu puppies looking for a new family. I only have a male and a female available from a litter of four. Puppies were born on July 13, 2022, for more details, please call or text.
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Shihtzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu San Jose (California) March 15, 2025 $ 1500.00These fullbred Shih Tzu puppies are ready to go. They are one and half month old, male and females available. They are already eating puppy food. All are very adorable and healthy. The price is $1500 for each, firm. Please call me if you are seriousl...
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3 Female Shih Tzu Puppies Super Cute
Shih Tzu Houston (Texas) May 1, 2025 $ 1450.00we have 3 female shis tzu puppies that ready for rehome. vaccinations and Dewormings updated heart worm preventive puppy pad trained puppy pack puppy cut included early puppy socialization training lifetime breeder support boarding upon availability ...